EP2079884B1 - Water economiser with manual pulse control to be mounted on a tap spout - Google Patents

Water economiser with manual pulse control to be mounted on a tap spout Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2079884B1
EP2079884B1 EP20070866445 EP07866445A EP2079884B1 EP 2079884 B1 EP2079884 B1 EP 2079884B1 EP 20070866445 EP20070866445 EP 20070866445 EP 07866445 A EP07866445 A EP 07866445A EP 2079884 B1 EP2079884 B1 EP 2079884B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
flow
economiser
valve
water
pusher
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Application number
EP20070866445
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP2079884A2 (en
Inventor
Daniel Savonnet
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BOUTTE
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Boutte
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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C1/08—Jet regulators or jet guides, e.g. anti-splash devices
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/30—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages
    • B05B1/3026—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages the controlling element being a gate valve, a sliding valve or a cock
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B05—SPRAYING OR ATOMISING IN GENERAL; APPLYING FLUENT MATERIALS TO SURFACES, IN GENERAL
    • B05B—SPRAYING APPARATUS; ATOMISING APPARATUS; NOZZLES
    • B05B1/00—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means
    • B05B1/30—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages
    • B05B1/3013—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages the controlling element being a lift valve
    • B05B1/302—Nozzles, spray heads or other outlets, with or without auxiliary devices such as valves, heating means designed to control volume of flow, e.g. with adjustable passages the controlling element being a lift valve with a ball-shaped valve member
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
    • E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
    • E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
    • E03C1/02—Plumbing installations for fresh water
    • E03C2001/026—Plumbing installations for fresh water with flow restricting devices
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T137/00—Fluid handling
    • Y10T137/9464—Faucets and spouts

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an adaptable water saver on the spout of a tap from which flows water with a flow rate and a temperature generally defined by means of hot and cold water control knobs .
  • faucets are mainly for hygiene, for example washing fruits and vegetables before consumption, for washing hands, or washing dishes after use. That's about sixty percent of domestic hot or cold water consumption.
  • the user unconsciously tends to adjust a large flow of water.
  • said user generally finds it compelling to close the faucet for a short time, especially since he has his hands lathered or clogged with dishes, and that the temperature of the water initially set would be changed when reopening tap.
  • the water flows unnecessarily, resulting in a significant waste of water.
  • Economizers are known for reducing the flow rate of water during its use.
  • This type of economizer consists of a water inlet tubing that attaches to the outlet spout of the faucet and a water outlet pipe through which the water is evacuated out of the economizer .
  • This type of economizer comprises a device for reducing the flow rate which makes it possible to limit instantly the output flow of the economizer, as soon as the valve is opened, and thus to systematically compensate for the inadvertent adjustment of the flow rate with the control levers of the tap. .
  • These economizers ensure certainly a reduction in water flow, but do not prevent the flow of water for the duration that the user lather hands, or cleans food or dishes, before performing a rinse .
  • water economizer comprising an inlet manifold, an outlet manifold and a mechanical device for reducing or interrupting flow.
  • This device is provided with a two-position control lever, manually operated by rotation or by translation making it possible to position said lever alternately in a first position or in a second position, the first position making it possible to reduce or interrupt the flow rate and the second position to restore the flow as set with the control levers tap.
  • the patent GB 2,356,687 in accordance with the preamble of claim 1; an example embodiment of a device of this type, the control lever operating by translation. This method of design requires manipulating the control handle with dirty hands or covered with detergent, which dirty said controller.
  • the present invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of current economizers by proposing a new economizer design mode, easily manipulated and that allows to reduce or interrupt the flow, or restore it as initially set with the joysticks of the tap, by a simple impulse on the economizer.
  • the invention relates to a water saver adaptable to the spout of a valve through which the water flows with a flow rate set when the valve is open, said economizer comprising a mechanical reduction device or interruption of the flow, a water inlet tubing that fits on the faucet spout, an outlet pipe through which the water is evacuated out of the economizer, said inlet and outlet manifolds defining a flow axis.
  • the economizer is remarkable in that it comprises a pulse control device allowing, when the valve is open and during a first pulse exerted upwards on the outlet pipe along the axis of flow, of reducing or interrupting the flow of water, then during a second pulse exerted upward on the outlet tubing, similar to the first pulse, to restore the water flow as initially set.
  • the economizer according to the invention has the advantage of allowing the reduction or interruption of the flow, very easily, by a single pulse exerted from the bottom upwards on the outlet pipe, this pulse can be carried out with the top of the hand, with the palm of a hand, with a finger or with the wrist.
  • the dirt or detergent that is deposited on the outlet pipe during a pulse is systematically flushed out of this outlet pipe when the flow of water is resumed.
  • the water saver 1 is adaptable to the spout of a tap.
  • the user actuates the faucet control levers (not shown in the figures) to open or close the flow of water.
  • the valve When the valve is opened, the water flows through the valve spout with a flow rate set by means of the control levers, which also adjust the temperature, this water then entering the economizer 1 connected to said spout.
  • the economizer 1 comprises an inlet pipe 5 which fits on the valve spout, in which the water returns with the flow as initially set with the levers.
  • the economizer 1 also includes an outlet pipe 7 through which water is evacuated for use.
  • These inlet and outlet pipes 7 define a flow channel having a flow axis 9, which is preferably coincident with the axis of the valve spout when the economizer 1 is fixed on said spout.
  • This flow axis 9 is generally defined in the vertical or slightly inclined relative to the vertical, so as to take advantage of the action of gravity on the components of said economizer, as will be described below .
  • the economizer 1 according to the invention is remarkable in that it comprises a pulse control device arranged between the inlet pipe 5 and the outlet pipe 7, which comprises at least one pusher 11, a rotary valve 13, an incrementation spring 15, and a body 17.
  • the pusher 11 is the element of the economizer 1 on which the pulses are exerted from bottom to top, either to reduce or interrupt the flow of water, or to restore the normal flow.
  • This pusher 11 is arranged in part lower part of the pulse device, in the flow axis 9.
  • the pusher 11 is of tubular shape and its lower end is the outlet pipe 7 of the economizer 1.
  • the rotary valve 13 is incrementing, that is to say that it performs, at each given pulse on the pusher 11, a rotation with a regular pitch around an axis 19 perpendicular to the flow axis 9 According to its incrementing position, the rotary valve 13 allows either the reduction or the interruption of the flow, or the transition to the normal flow, initially set.
  • the spring 15 makes it possible to increment the rotary valve 13 when a pulse is given on the pusher 11.
  • the pusher 11 actuates the spring 15 which causes the valve 13 to rotate.
  • This spring 15 then contributes to the return to position of the pusher 11, so that the user can make a new pulse and change the operating state of the economizer 1.
  • the body 17 receives the incremental spring 15 and the rotary valve 13.
  • the pusher 11 is slidably mounted relative to the body 17, along the flow axis 9.
  • the body 17 is of tubular shape and its upper end is the input pipe 5 of the economizer 1 in which enters the water out of the valve spout.
  • the upper end of the body 17 has a thread allowing its screwing on the spout of the valve.
  • the economizer will include a thread adapter, not shown, which allows to mount the economizer at the end of any type of valve regardless of their thread, male or female.
  • the incrementation spring 15 has the shape of a U comprising two branches 21, 23 and a base 25.
  • the first branch 21 is in the continuity of the base 25, while the spring 15 comprises a loop 27 in the form of a spiral disposed between the second branch 23 and the base 25; this loop 27 improves the elastic properties of the spring 15 for the return in position of the branches 21, 23 during their deformation.
  • the ends 29, 31 of the branches 21, 23 of the spring 15 are bent so that, when the spring 15 is tightened, its ends 29, 31 have a spacing allowing them to cooperate with the rotary valve 13, as it will be described below.
  • the spring 15 is held flat on the body 17 and is pivotally mounted on said body 17 by means of a pivoting part 33 which receives the loop 27 of this spring 15, as shown in FIGS. figures 1 , 2 and 4 .
  • This flat hold and this assembly in pivot connection are arranged to allow the translation of the first of the branches 21 of the U in the direction of the flow axis 9 and upwards, that is to say towards the beak of valve 3, during a pulse on the pusher 11, then its return to position; they also make it possible to pivot the two branches 21, 23 of the U keeping them flat on the body 17, the second of the branches 23 being rotated relative to the pivoting part 33 during an incrementation of the rotary valve 13.
  • This incrementation of the rotary valve 13 is obtained during a pulse exerted on the pusher 11 which translates the first branch 21, this translation driving in rotation the rotary valve 13 about its axis 19.
  • the flattening of the U-shaped spring 15 makes it possible to block in translation the second branch 23 with respect to the body 17 in both directions of the flow axis 9.
  • This locking function has the function of ensuring the elastic return in the position of rest of the first branch 21; this return in rest position and the tension exerted by said first branch 21 allow the repositioning of the pusher 11 in the initial position after a pulse on it.
  • the first branch 21 permanently exerts a pressing pressure on the pusher to ensure its return and its holding in the low position.
  • the body 17 comprises two housings 35, 37 for holding the spring 15 flat.
  • the first housing 35 is arranged to receive the first branch 21 of the spring 15, leaving it free in translation from bottom to top, so as to allow its during a pulse exerted on the pusher 11.
  • the second housing 37 is arranged to receive the second branch 23 of the spring 15 ensuring its locking in both directions of the flow axis 9.
  • This housing 37 is of dimensions corresponding to those of the second branch 23 so that it is blocked by the upper face 41 and the lower face 43 of said housing 37.
  • the spring 15 is inserted on the body 17 by placing the two branches 21, 23 respectively in the housings 35, 37, the spiral loop 25 being in turn inserted into a third housing 45, then held in position by the pivoting piece 33 which is inserted into an orifice 47 on the body 17, shown in figure 5 , thus ensuring its maintenance in position.
  • the represented embodiment of the rotary valve 13 comprises a cylindrical central body 49 and teeth 51 for incrementing in rotation said cylindrical central body 49 about the axis 19 perpendicular to the flow axis 9.
  • the body 17 comprises a cylindrical housing 53 of corresponding dimensions, defined along the axis 19 and which receives the cylindrical body 49 of the valve 13, thus ensuring its mounting in pivot connection on said body 17, along the axis 19.
  • the cylindrical housing 53 on the body 17 communicates with the flow channel 55.
  • the rotary valve 13 comprises at least three lumens 57, 58, 59 arranged in a radial position and uniformly distributed over 360 ° around the central body, cylindrical in the variant shown. These lights 57, 58, 59 also communicate with the flow channel 55 when the cylindrical central body 49 is in position in the cylindrical housing 53 of the body 17, thus ensuring either the reduction or interruption of the flow of water, or the free passage of the water flow, according to the incrementation in rotation of the valve 13. In fact, during a first pulse, the valve 13 is incremented and rotates by positioning itself as shown in FIG.
  • the lights 57, 58, 59 then communicating with the flow channel 55 to ensure the normal flow of the valve as shown in FIGS. figures 1 and 3 .
  • the lights 57 and 59 communicate with the inlet of the flow channel and the light 58 communicates with the outlet 60 of the flow channel, this outlet 60 constituting the escapement whose shape corresponds to that of the lights 57, 58, 59 on the valve 13.
  • the valve 13 is incremented by 1/6 of a turn and is positioned as shown in FIG.
  • rotary valve 13 it will advantageously comprise a central body of spherical shape.
  • This design makes it possible to facilitate the rotational drive of the valve 13 and to obtain a superior seal with respect to the cylindrical embodiment variant of the central body 49 of said valve 13.
  • a seal will advantageously be positioned at the periphery of the valve.
  • the pressure of the water exerted on the valve 13 is distributed over the periphery of the orifice of the flow channel 55, on the seal, ensuring the tightness of the assembly.
  • This variant because of the very good sealing it provides, advantageously allows the economizer to be used as a water flow switch, the control levers of the tap remaining open and the flow then being controlled only by the impulses exerted on the economizer.
  • the spherical body of the valve will include regularly distributed slots around the axis 19 of the valve 13 and the rotational drive of the valve 13 is performed in a similar manner, by the interaction of the teeth with the spring 15.
  • the teeth 51 of the rotary valve 13 are provided with a inclination, represented on the figures 1 and 2 . These teeth 51 thus have an inner face 61 and an outer face 63.
  • the end 29 of the first leg 21 of the spring 15 is locked in abutment on the inner face 61 of a tooth 51; then there is gearing: the upward translation of this first branch 21 then causes rotation, around the axis 19, of the valve 13 relative to the body 17.
  • the end 31 the second branch 23 of the spring 15 bears on the outer face 63 of a tooth 51.
  • first branch 21 of the spring 15 tends to resume its rest position.
  • the second branch 23 is locked bearing on the inner face 61 of a tooth 51 and is also locked in the housing 37 of the body 17, which firstly prevents the rotation in the opposite direction of the valve 13, and then prevents the second branch 23 from pivoting with respect to the pivoting part 33.
  • the end 29 of the first branch 21 of the spring 15 slides then bearing on the external face 63 of the next tooth 51, blocking the second branch 23 in the bottom 65 of the housing 37, shown in FIG. figure 3 , then ensuring the springback in the rest position of said first branch 21 below the inner face 61 of the next tooth 51.
  • the pusher 11 comprises a notch 67 receiving the end 29 of the first branch 21 of the spring 15.
  • the bottom 69 of the notch 67 presses on the end 29 of this first branch 21 during a pulse or springback in the rest position of the first branch 21.
  • One of the sides of the notch 67 that is to say the inner side 71, ensures the locking of the first leg 21 of the spring 15.
  • This blocking allows the return elastic in the rest position of the second branch 23 of the spring on the outer face 63 of a tooth 51 of the valve 13 after each incrementation of said valve 13.
  • This notch 67 also allows the rotation of the first leg 21 of the spring 15 relative to the pivoting piece 33, during its elastic return to the rest position after a pulse exerted on the pusher 11.
  • the body 17 comprises at least one guide pin 73.
  • This guide pin 73 fits in an orifice 75 on the body 17, and it is housed in a slot 77 on the pusher 11 with which it cooperates to provide guidance in translation of said pusher 11 on the body 17 in both directions of the flow axis 9.
  • the upper end 79 of the slot 77 constitutes a stop which defines the stroke of the pusher 11 relative to the body 17 when it descends under the thrust exerted by the first leg 21 of the spring 15. During a pulse exerted on the pusher 11, its upper end comes into contact on the underside 81 of the body 17 abutting.
  • the pulse control device comprises a sliding ring 83 which constitutes an intermediate piece between the body 17 and the pusher 11.
  • This ring 83 is secured to the lower end 85 of the body 17, for example by screwing.
  • the inside diameter of the pusher 11 receives this ring 83 to ensure a sliding assembly between these two elements during a pulse on the pusher 11 and its return to position.
  • this sliding ring 83 is provided to receive an aerator or a mixer known to the skilled person to break the water jet.
  • the pulse control device comprises a protective ring 87.
  • This ring 87 is integral with the body 17 so as to form its outer casing.
  • the ring 87 is preferably screwed onto the upper end 89 of the body 17 and extends downwardly along the latter to cover at least said body 17, the rotary valve 13, the increment spring 15 and the upper portion 91 of the pusher 11 comprising the light 77.
  • the economiser will preferably use seals 93, 95, 97 necessary to ensure perfect sealing of the assembled elements.
  • the economizer 1 according to the invention is advantageously operated by always exerting the same pulse upwards on the pusher.
  • the economizer will be used by valve manufacturers and can be used on any type of standard valve, with male or female thread, thanks to its adapter. It can be installed very simply by individuals, who can advantageously reuse the mixer or the aerator already equipping their faucets.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Multiple-Way Valves (AREA)
  • Domestic Plumbing Installations (AREA)
  • Taps Or Cocks (AREA)
  • Sanitary Device For Flush Toilet (AREA)
  • Mechanically-Actuated Valves (AREA)

Description

La présente invention est relative à un économiseur d'eau adaptable sur le bec d'un robinet duquel s'écoule de l'eau avec un débit et une température généralement définis au moyen de manettes de commande d'eau chaude et d'eau froide.The present invention relates to an adaptable water saver on the spout of a tap from which flows water with a flow rate and a temperature generally defined by means of hot and cold water control knobs .

L'usage des robinets intervient principalement pour l'hygiène, par exemple pour laver des fruits et des légumes avant leur consommation, pour se laver les mains, ou encore pour laver la vaisselle après son utilisation. Cela représente environ soixante pour cent de la consommation domestique d'eau chaude ou froide. Habituellement, lors d'une ouverture du robinet, l'utilisateur a inconsciemment tendance à régler un débit d'eau important. Ensuite, ledit utilisateur trouve généralement contraignant de fermer pour un court instant le robinet, d'autant qu'il a les mains savonnées ou bien encombrées par de la vaisselle, et que la température de l'eau réglée initialement serait modifiée lors de la réouverture du robinet. Il en résulte que pendant plus de cinquante pour cent du temps l'eau coule inutilement, d'où un gaspillage important de l'eau.The use of faucets is mainly for hygiene, for example washing fruits and vegetables before consumption, for washing hands, or washing dishes after use. That's about sixty percent of domestic hot or cold water consumption. Usually when opening the faucet, the user unconsciously tends to adjust a large flow of water. Then, said user generally finds it compelling to close the faucet for a short time, especially since he has his hands lathered or clogged with dishes, and that the temperature of the water initially set would be changed when reopening tap. As a result, for more than fifty percent of the time the water flows unnecessarily, resulting in a significant waste of water.

On connaît pour cela des économiseurs qui permettent de réduire le débit d'écoulement de l'eau lors de son usage. Ce type d'économiseur se compose d'une tubulure d'entrée d'eau qui se fixe sur le bec de sortie du robinet et d'une tubulure de sortie d'eau par laquelle s'évacue l'eau hors de l'économiseur. Ce type d'économiseur comprend un dispositif de réduction du débit qui permet de limiter instantanément le débit en sortie de l'économiseur, dès l'ouverture du robinet, et ainsi de compenser systématiquement le réglage intempestif du débit avec les manettes de commande du robinet. Ces économiseurs assurent certes une réduction de débit d'eau, mais n'empêchent pas pour autant l'écoulement de l'eau pendant la durée où l'utilisateur se savonne les mains, ou nettoie des aliments ou de la vaisselle, avant d'effectuer un rinçage.Economizers are known for reducing the flow rate of water during its use. This type of economizer consists of a water inlet tubing that attaches to the outlet spout of the faucet and a water outlet pipe through which the water is evacuated out of the economizer . This type of economizer comprises a device for reducing the flow rate which makes it possible to limit instantly the output flow of the economizer, as soon as the valve is opened, and thus to systematically compensate for the inadvertent adjustment of the flow rate with the control levers of the tap. . These economizers ensure certainly a reduction in water flow, but do not prevent the flow of water for the duration that the user lather hands, or cleans food or dishes, before performing a rinse .

On connaît également d'autres modes de réalisation d'économiseur d'eau, comprenant une tubulure d'entrée, une tubulure de sortie et un dispositif mécanique de réduction ou d'interruption du débit. Ce dispositif est muni d'une manette de commande à deux positions, manoeuvrée manuellement par rotation ou par translation permettant de positionner ladite manette alternativement dans une première position ou dans une seconde position, la première position permettant de réduire ou d'interrompre le débit et la seconde position permettant de rétablir le débit tel que réglé avec les manettes de commande du robinet Le brevet GB 2.356.687 ; en accord avec le préambule de la revendication 1 ; un exemple de réalisation d'un dispositif de ce type, la manette de commande fonctionnant par translation. Ce mode de conception nécessite de manipuler la manette de commande avec les mains sales ou couvertes de détergent, ce qui salit ladite manette.Also known are other embodiments of water economizer, comprising an inlet manifold, an outlet manifold and a mechanical device for reducing or interrupting flow. This device is provided with a two-position control lever, manually operated by rotation or by translation making it possible to position said lever alternately in a first position or in a second position, the first position making it possible to reduce or interrupt the flow rate and the second position to restore the flow as set with the control levers tap The patent GB 2,356,687 ; in accordance with the preamble of claim 1; an example embodiment of a device of this type, the control lever operating by translation. This method of design requires manipulating the control handle with dirty hands or covered with detergent, which dirty said controller.

La présente invention vise à remédier aux inconvénients des économiseurs actuels en proposant un nouveau mode de conception d'économiseur, facilement manipulable et qui permet soit de réduire ou d'interrompre le débit, soit de le rétablir tel que réglé initialement avec les manettes de commande du robinet, par une simple impulsion sur l'économiseur.The present invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of current economizers by proposing a new economizer design mode, easily manipulated and that allows to reduce or interrupt the flow, or restore it as initially set with the joysticks of the tap, by a simple impulse on the economizer.

A cet effet, l'invention concerne un économiseur d'eau adaptable sur le bec d'un robinet au travers duquel s'écoule l'eau avec un débit réglé lorsque le robinet est ouvert, ledit économiseur comprenant un dispositif mécanique de réduction ou d'interruption du débit, une tubulure d'entrée d'eau qui s'adapte sur le bec de robinet, une tubulure de sortie par laquelle s'évacue l'eau hors de l'économiseur, lesdites tubulures d'entrée et de sortie définissant un axe d'écoulement. L'économiseur est remarquable en ce qu'il comprend un dispositif de commande à impulsion permettant, lorsque le robinet est ouvert et lors d'une première impulsion exercée de bas en haut sur la tubulure de sortie suivant l'axe d'écoulement, de réduire ou d'interrompre le débit d'eau, puis lors d'une seconde impulsion exercée de bas en haut sur la tubulure de sortie, semblable à la première impulsion, de rétablir le débit d'eau tel que réglé initialement.To this end, the invention relates to a water saver adaptable to the spout of a valve through which the water flows with a flow rate set when the valve is open, said economizer comprising a mechanical reduction device or interruption of the flow, a water inlet tubing that fits on the faucet spout, an outlet pipe through which the water is evacuated out of the economizer, said inlet and outlet manifolds defining a flow axis. The economizer is remarkable in that it comprises a pulse control device allowing, when the valve is open and during a first pulse exerted upwards on the outlet pipe along the axis of flow, of reducing or interrupting the flow of water, then during a second pulse exerted upward on the outlet tubing, similar to the first pulse, to restore the water flow as initially set.

L'économiseur selon l'invention présente pour avantage de permettre la réduction ou l'interruption du débit, très facilement, par une simple impulsion exercée du bas vers le haut sur la tubulure de sortie, cette impulsion pouvant être réalisée avec le dessus de la main, avec la paume de main, avec un doigt ou avec le poignet. En outre, la saleté ou le détergent qui se dépose sur la tubulure de sortie lors d'une impulsion est systématiquement rincé de cette tubulure de sortie à la reprise de l'écoulement de l'eau.The economizer according to the invention has the advantage of allowing the reduction or interruption of the flow, very easily, by a single pulse exerted from the bottom upwards on the outlet pipe, this pulse can be carried out with the top of the hand, with the palm of a hand, with a finger or with the wrist. In addition, the dirt or detergent that is deposited on the outlet pipe during a pulse is systematically flushed out of this outlet pipe when the flow of water is resumed.

D'autres avantages apparaîtront au cours de la description suivante qui s'appuie sur des figures représentant un mode de conception de l'économiseur selon l'invention, parmi lesquelles :

  • les figures 1 et 2 représentent deux vues d'ensemble de l'économiseur, la figure 1 montrant l'économiseur dans une position où le débit est normal, et la figure 2 montrant l'économiseur dans une position où le débit est réduit ou interrompu,
  • les figures 3 et 4 représentent deux vues en coupe et en trois dimensions de l'économiseur selon les figures 1 et 2, la figure 3 montrant l'économiseur dans une position de débit normal et la figure 4 montrant l'économiseur dans une position où le débit est réduit ou interrompu,
  • la figure 5 représente une vue éclatée en trois dimensions de l'économiseur selon les figures 1 à 4.
Other advantages will become apparent during the following description which is based on figures representing a design mode of the economizer according to the invention, among which:
  • the figures 1 and 2 represent two overviews of the economizer, the figure 1 showing the economizer in a position where the flow is normal, and the figure 2 showing the economizer in a position where the flow is reduced or interrupted,
  • the figures 3 and 4 represent two sectional and three-dimensional views of the economizer according to the figures 1 and 2 , the figure 3 showing the economizer in a normal flow position and the figure 4 showing the economizer in a position where the flow is reduced or interrupted,
  • the figure 5 represents an exploded three-dimensional view of the economizer according to the Figures 1 to 4 .

En référence à l'ensemble des figures, l'économiseur d'eau 1 selon l'invention est adaptable sur le bec d'un robinet. L'utilisateur actionne les manettes de commande du robinet (non représentées sur les figures) pour ouvrir ou fermer le débit d'eau. Lors de l'ouverture du robinet, l'eau s'écoule au travers du bec de robinet avec un débit réglé au moyen des manettes de commande, qui permettent également de régler la température, cette eau entrant alors dans l'économiseur 1 raccordé sur ledit bec de robinet. L'économiseur 1 comprend une tubulure d'entrée 5 qui s'adapte sur le bec de robinet, dans laquelle l'eau rentre avec le débit tel que réglé initialement avec les manettes. L'économiseur 1 comprend également une tubulure de sortie 7 par laquelle l'eau s'évacue pour être utilisée. Ces tubulures d'entrée 5 et de sortie 7 définissent un canal d'écoulement présentant un axe d'écoulement 9, qui est de préférence confondu avec l'axe du bec de robinet lorsque l'économiseur 1 est fixé sur ledit bec. Cet axe d'écoulement 9 est généralement défini suivant la verticale ou légèrement incliné par rapport à la verticale, de manière à tirer avantage de l'action de la gravité sur les pièces composant ledit économiseur, tel qu'il le sera décrit ci-après.With reference to all the figures, the water saver 1 according to the invention is adaptable to the spout of a tap. The user actuates the faucet control levers (not shown in the figures) to open or close the flow of water. When the valve is opened, the water flows through the valve spout with a flow rate set by means of the control levers, which also adjust the temperature, this water then entering the economizer 1 connected to said spout. The economizer 1 comprises an inlet pipe 5 which fits on the valve spout, in which the water returns with the flow as initially set with the levers. The economizer 1 also includes an outlet pipe 7 through which water is evacuated for use. These inlet and outlet pipes 7 define a flow channel having a flow axis 9, which is preferably coincident with the axis of the valve spout when the economizer 1 is fixed on said spout. This flow axis 9 is generally defined in the vertical or slightly inclined relative to the vertical, so as to take advantage of the action of gravity on the components of said economizer, as will be described below .

L'économiseur 1 selon l'invention est remarquable en ce qu'il comprend un dispositif de commande à impulsion agencé entre la tubulure d'entrée 5 et la tubulure de sortie 7, qui comprend au moins un poussoir 11, un clapet rotatif 13, un ressort d'incrémentation 15, et un corps 17.The economizer 1 according to the invention is remarkable in that it comprises a pulse control device arranged between the inlet pipe 5 and the outlet pipe 7, which comprises at least one pusher 11, a rotary valve 13, an incrementation spring 15, and a body 17.

Le poussoir 11 est l'élément de l'économiseur 1 sur lequel s'exercent de bas en haut les impulsions, soit pour réduire ou interrompre le débit d'eau, soit pour rétablir le débit normal. Ce poussoir 11 est agencé en partie inférieure du dispositif à impulsion, dans l'axe d'écoulement 9. De manière préférentielle, le poussoir 11 est de forme tubulaire et son extrémité inférieure constitue la tubulure de sortie 7 de l'économiseur 1.The pusher 11 is the element of the economizer 1 on which the pulses are exerted from bottom to top, either to reduce or interrupt the flow of water, or to restore the normal flow. This pusher 11 is arranged in part lower part of the pulse device, in the flow axis 9. Preferably, the pusher 11 is of tubular shape and its lower end is the outlet pipe 7 of the economizer 1.

Le clapet rotatif 13 est à incrémentation, c'est-à-dire qu'il effectue, à chaque impulsion donnée sur le poussoir 11, une rotation avec un pas régulier autour d'un axe 19 perpendiculaire à l'axe d'écoulement 9. Selon sa position d'incrémentation, le clapet rotatif 13 permet soit la réduction ou l'interruption du débit, soit le passage au débit normal, réglé initialement.The rotary valve 13 is incrementing, that is to say that it performs, at each given pulse on the pusher 11, a rotation with a regular pitch around an axis 19 perpendicular to the flow axis 9 According to its incrementing position, the rotary valve 13 allows either the reduction or the interruption of the flow, or the transition to the normal flow, initially set.

Le ressort 15 permet l'incrémentation du clapet rotatif 13 lorsqu'une impulsion est donnée sur le poussoir 11. Le poussoir 11 actionne le ressort 15 qui entraîne la rotation du clapet 13. Ce ressort 15 contribue ensuite au rappel en position du poussoir 11, pour que l'utilisateur puisse effectuer une nouvelle impulsion et modifier l'état de fonctionnement de l'économiseur 1.The spring 15 makes it possible to increment the rotary valve 13 when a pulse is given on the pusher 11. The pusher 11 actuates the spring 15 which causes the valve 13 to rotate. This spring 15 then contributes to the return to position of the pusher 11, so that the user can make a new pulse and change the operating state of the economizer 1.

Le corps 17 reçoit le ressort d'incrémentation 15 et le clapet rotatif 13. Le poussoir 11 est monté coulissant par rapport au corps 17, suivant l'axe d'écoulement 9. De manière préférentielle, le corps 17 est de forme tubulaire et son extrémité supérieure constitue la tubulure d'entrée 5 de l'économiseur 1 dans laquelle pénètre l'eau sortant du bec de robinet. L'extrémité supérieure du corps 17 présente un filetage permettant son vissage sur le bec du robinet. Avantageusement, l'économiseur comportera un adaptateur de filetage, non représenté, qui permet ainsi de monter l'économiseur à l'extrémité de tout type de robinet quel que soit leur filetage, mâle ou femelle.The body 17 receives the incremental spring 15 and the rotary valve 13. The pusher 11 is slidably mounted relative to the body 17, along the flow axis 9. Preferably, the body 17 is of tubular shape and its upper end is the input pipe 5 of the economizer 1 in which enters the water out of the valve spout. The upper end of the body 17 has a thread allowing its screwing on the spout of the valve. Advantageously, the economizer will include a thread adapter, not shown, which allows to mount the economizer at the end of any type of valve regardless of their thread, male or female.

Selon la variante de conception représentée sur les figures 1 à 5, le ressort d'incrémentation 15 a la forme d'un U comprenant deux branches 21, 23 et une base 25. La première branche 21 se situe dans la continuité de la base 25, tandis que le ressort 15 comprend une boucle 27 en forme de spirale disposée entre la seconde branche 23 et la base 25 ; cette boucle 27 améliore les propriétés élastiques du ressort 15 pour le rappel en position des branches 21, 23 lors de leur déformation. Les extrémités 29, 31 des branches 21, 23 du ressort 15 sont recourbées de manière à ce que, lorsque le ressort 15 se resserre, ses extrémités 29, 31 présentent un écartement leur permettant de coopérer avec le clapet rotatif 13, tel qu'il le sera décrit ci-après.According to the design variant represented on the Figures 1 to 5 , the incrementation spring 15 has the shape of a U comprising two branches 21, 23 and a base 25. The first branch 21 is in the continuity of the base 25, while the spring 15 comprises a loop 27 in the form of a spiral disposed between the second branch 23 and the base 25; this loop 27 improves the elastic properties of the spring 15 for the return in position of the branches 21, 23 during their deformation. The ends 29, 31 of the branches 21, 23 of the spring 15 are bent so that, when the spring 15 is tightened, its ends 29, 31 have a spacing allowing them to cooperate with the rotary valve 13, as it will be described below.

Le ressort 15 est maintenu à plat sur le corps 17 et il est monté en liaison pivot sur ledit corps 17 au moyen d'une pièce de pivotement 33 qui reçoit la boucle 27 de ce ressort 15, tel que représenté sur les figures 1, 2 et 4. Ce maintien à plat et ce montage en liaison pivot sont agencés pour permettre la translation de la première des branches 21 du U dans le sens de l'axe d'écoulement 9 et vers le haut, c'est-à-dire vers le bec de robinet 3, lors d'une impulsion sur le poussoir 11, puis son retour en position ; ils permettent également de pivoter les deux branches 21, 23 du U en les maintenant à plat sur le corps 17, la seconde des branches 23 subissant une rotation par rapport à la pièce de pivotement 33 lors d'une incrémentation du clapet rotatif 13.The spring 15 is held flat on the body 17 and is pivotally mounted on said body 17 by means of a pivoting part 33 which receives the loop 27 of this spring 15, as shown in FIGS. figures 1 , 2 and 4 . This flat hold and this assembly in pivot connection are arranged to allow the translation of the first of the branches 21 of the U in the direction of the flow axis 9 and upwards, that is to say towards the beak of valve 3, during a pulse on the pusher 11, then its return to position; they also make it possible to pivot the two branches 21, 23 of the U keeping them flat on the body 17, the second of the branches 23 being rotated relative to the pivoting part 33 during an incrementation of the rotary valve 13.

Cette incrémentation du clapet rotatif 13 est obtenue lors d'une impulsion exercée sur le poussoir 11 qui translate la première branche 21, cette translation entraînant en rotation le clapet rotatif 13 autour de son axe 19.This incrementation of the rotary valve 13 is obtained during a pulse exerted on the pusher 11 which translates the first branch 21, this translation driving in rotation the rotary valve 13 about its axis 19.

Le maintien à plat du ressort 15 en U permet de bloquer en translation la seconde branche 23 par rapport au corps 17 dans les deux sens de l'axe d'écoulement 9. Ce blocage a pour fonction d'assurer le retour élastique en position de repos de la première branche 21 ; ce retour en position de repos et la tension exercée par ladite première branche 21 permettent le repositionnement du poussoir 11 en position initiale après avoir effectué une impulsion sur celui-ci. De manière préférentielle, la première branche 21 exerce, en permanence, une pression d'appui sur le poussoir pour assurer son retour et son maintien en position basse.The flattening of the U-shaped spring 15 makes it possible to block in translation the second branch 23 with respect to the body 17 in both directions of the flow axis 9. This locking function has the function of ensuring the elastic return in the position of rest of the first branch 21; this return in rest position and the tension exerted by said first branch 21 allow the repositioning of the pusher 11 in the initial position after a pulse on it. Preferably, the first branch 21 permanently exerts a pressing pressure on the pusher to ensure its return and its holding in the low position.

En référence aux figures 3 à 5, le corps 17 comprend deux logements 35, 37 permettant le maintien à plat du ressort 15. Le premier logement 35 est agencé pour recevoir la première branche 21 du ressort 15 en la laissant libre en translation de bas en haut, de manière à permettre son aller-retour lors d'une impulsion exercée sur le poussoir 11. Le second logement 37 est agencé pour recevoir la seconde branche 23 du ressort 15 en assurant son blocage dans les deux sens de l'axe d'écoulement 9. Ce logement 37 est de dimensions correspondant à celles de la seconde branche 23 pour que celle-ci soit bloquée par la face supérieure 41 et la face inférieure 43 dudit logement 37. Le ressort 15 est donc inséré sur le corps 17 en plaçant les deux branches 21, 23 respectivement dans les logements 35, 37, la boucle en spirale 25 étant quant à elle insérée dans un troisième logement 45, puis maintenue en position par la pièce de pivotement 33 qui est insérée dans un orifice 47 sur le corps 17, représenté en figure 5, assurant ainsi son maintien en position.With reference to Figures 3 to 5 , the body 17 comprises two housings 35, 37 for holding the spring 15 flat. The first housing 35 is arranged to receive the first branch 21 of the spring 15, leaving it free in translation from bottom to top, so as to allow its during a pulse exerted on the pusher 11. The second housing 37 is arranged to receive the second branch 23 of the spring 15 ensuring its locking in both directions of the flow axis 9. This housing 37 is of dimensions corresponding to those of the second branch 23 so that it is blocked by the upper face 41 and the lower face 43 of said housing 37. The spring 15 is inserted on the body 17 by placing the two branches 21, 23 respectively in the housings 35, 37, the spiral loop 25 being in turn inserted into a third housing 45, then held in position by the pivoting piece 33 which is inserted into an orifice 47 on the body 17, shown in figure 5 , thus ensuring its maintenance in position.

En référence à la figure 5, la variante d'exécution représentée du clapet rotatif 13 comprend un corps central cylindrique 49 et des dents 51 permettant d'incrémenter en rotation ledit corps central cylindrique 49 autour de l'axe 19 perpendiculaire à l'axe d'écoulement 9. Pour cela, le corps 17 comprend un logement cylindrique 53 aux dimensions correspondantes, défini suivant l'axe 19 et qui réceptionne le corps cylindrique 49 du clapet 13, assurant ainsi son montage en liaison pivot sur ledit corps 17, suivant l'axe 19.With reference to the figure 5 , the represented embodiment of the rotary valve 13 comprises a cylindrical central body 49 and teeth 51 for incrementing in rotation said cylindrical central body 49 about the axis 19 perpendicular to the flow axis 9. For this , the body 17 comprises a cylindrical housing 53 of corresponding dimensions, defined along the axis 19 and which receives the cylindrical body 49 of the valve 13, thus ensuring its mounting in pivot connection on said body 17, along the axis 19.

En référence aux figures 1 à 4, le logement cylindrique 53 sur le corps 17 communique avec le canal d'écoulement 55. Le clapet rotatif 13 comprend au moins trois lumières 57, 58, 59 disposées en position radiale et uniformément réparties sur 360° autour du corps central, cylindrique dans la variante représentée. Ces lumières 57, 58, 59 communiquent également avec le canal d'écoulement 55 lorsque le corps central cylindrique 49 est en position dans le logement cylindrique 53 du corps 17, assurant ainsi soit la réduction ou l'interruption du débit d'eau, soit le passage libre du débit d'eau, en fonction de l'incrémentation en rotation du clapet 13. En effet, lors d'une première impulsion, le clapet 13 s'incrémente et effectue une rotation en se positionnant tel que représenté en figure 1, les lumières 57, 58, 59 communiquant alors avec le canal d'écoulement 55 pour assurer le débit normal du robinet tel que représenté aux figures 1 et 3. Selon ces figures 1 et 3, les lumières 57 et 59 communiquent avec l'entrée du canal d'écoulement et la lumière 58 communique avec la sortie 60 du canal d'écoulement, cette sortie 60 constituant l'échappement dont la forme correspond à celle des lumières 57, 58, 59 sur le clapet 13. Lors d'une seconde impulsion, le clapet 13 effectue une incrémentation de 1/6 de tour et se positionne tel que représenté en figure 2 et 4 ; la lumière 58 communique alors avec l'entrée du canal d'écoulement et la sortie 60 du canal est obstruée par la matière constituée par le plein 62 entre les lumières 57, 59, réduisant ainsi le débit du robinet. Dans cette position représentée aux figures 2 et 4, l'eau exerce une pression sur le plein 62 entre les lumières 57, 59 ; cette pression permet de plaquer le clapet sur la sortie 60 d'échappement. Ce plein 62 disposé entre les lumières 57, 59 peut cependant obturer complètement le canal d'écoulement 55, dans une configuration semblable aux figures 2 et 4, et dans ce cas réduire à un goutte-à-goutte le débit lors de la seconde impulsion. Il est bien entendu possible d'ajouter des joints d'étanchéité afin d'interrompre totalement le débit.With reference to Figures 1 to 4 , the cylindrical housing 53 on the body 17 communicates with the flow channel 55. The rotary valve 13 comprises at least three lumens 57, 58, 59 arranged in a radial position and uniformly distributed over 360 ° around the central body, cylindrical in the variant shown. These lights 57, 58, 59 also communicate with the flow channel 55 when the cylindrical central body 49 is in position in the cylindrical housing 53 of the body 17, thus ensuring either the reduction or interruption of the flow of water, or the free passage of the water flow, according to the incrementation in rotation of the valve 13. In fact, during a first pulse, the valve 13 is incremented and rotates by positioning itself as shown in FIG. figure 1 , the lights 57, 58, 59 then communicating with the flow channel 55 to ensure the normal flow of the valve as shown in FIGS. figures 1 and 3 . According to these figures 1 and 3 , the lights 57 and 59 communicate with the inlet of the flow channel and the light 58 communicates with the outlet 60 of the flow channel, this outlet 60 constituting the escapement whose shape corresponds to that of the lights 57, 58, 59 on the valve 13. During a second pulse, the valve 13 is incremented by 1/6 of a turn and is positioned as shown in FIG. figure 2 and 4 ; the light 58 then communicates with the inlet of the flow channel and the outlet 60 of the channel is obstructed by the material constituted by the full 62 between the lights 57, 59, thus reducing the flow rate of the valve. In this position represented in figures 2 and 4 , the water exerts a pressure on the full 62 between the lights 57, 59; this pressure makes it possible to press the valve on the exhaust outlet 60. This full 62 disposed between the lights 57, 59 can however close completely the flow channel 55, in a configuration similar to figures 2 and 4 , and in this case reduce to a drip the flow rate during the second pulse. It is of course possible to add seals to completely interrupt the flow.

Selon une autre variante d'exécution du clapet rotatif 13, non représentée sur les figures, celui-ci comportera avantageusement un corps central de forme sphérique.According to another alternative embodiment of the rotary valve 13, not shown in the figures, it will advantageously comprise a central body of spherical shape.

Cette conception permet de faciliter l'entraînement en rotation du clapet 13 et d'obtenir une étanchéité supérieure par rapport à la variante d'exécution cylindrique du corps central 49 dudit clapet 13. En effet, un joint sera avantageusement positionné à la périphérie de l'extrémité supérieure de la sortie 60 du canal d'écoulement 55, pris entre le corps du clapet et le logement 53 du corps 17, qui présentera un évidement pour accueillir ledit joint. De par sa forme sphérique, la pression de l'eau exercée sur le clapet 13 est répartie sur la périphérie de l'orifice du canal d'écoulement 55, sur le joint, assurant la bonne étanchéité de l'ensemble. Cette variante, du fait de la très bonne étanchéité qu'elle procure, permet avantageusement d'utiliser l'économiseur comme un interrupteur d'écoulement de l'eau, les manettes de commande du robinet restant ouvertes et l'écoulement étant alors commandé uniquement par les impulsions exercées sur l'économiseur.This design makes it possible to facilitate the rotational drive of the valve 13 and to obtain a superior seal with respect to the cylindrical embodiment variant of the central body 49 of said valve 13. In fact, a seal will advantageously be positioned at the periphery of the valve. the upper end of the outlet 60 of the flow channel 55, taken between the valve body and the housing 53 of the body 17, which will have a recess for accommodating said seal. By its spherical shape, the pressure of the water exerted on the valve 13 is distributed over the periphery of the orifice of the flow channel 55, on the seal, ensuring the tightness of the assembly. This variant, because of the very good sealing it provides, advantageously allows the economizer to be used as a water flow switch, the control levers of the tap remaining open and the flow then being controlled only by the impulses exerted on the economizer.

Bien entendu, de la même manière que la variante illustrée, le corps sphérique du clapet comprendra des lumières réparties régulièrement autour de l'axe 19 du clapet 13 et l'entraînement en rotation du clapet 13 s'effectue de façon similaire, par l'interaction des dents avec le ressort 15.Of course, in the same way as the variant illustrated, the spherical body of the valve will include regularly distributed slots around the axis 19 of the valve 13 and the rotational drive of the valve 13 is performed in a similar manner, by the interaction of the teeth with the spring 15.

Les dents 51 du clapet rotatif 13 sont munies d'une inclinaison, représentée sur les figures 1 et 2. Ces dents 51 présentent donc une face interne 61 et une face externe 63. Lors d'une impulsion exercée sur le poussoir 11, l'extrémité 29 de la première branche 21 du ressort 15 est bloquée en appui sur la face interne 61 d'une dent 51 ; il y a alors engrenage : la translation vers le haut de cette première branche 21 entraîne alors la rotation, autour de l'axe 19, du clapet 13 par rapport au corps 17. Au cours de cette rotation du clapet 13, l'extrémité 31 de la seconde branche 23 du ressort 15 est en appui sur la face externe 63 d'une dent 51. L'effort de rotation fait donc glisser la seconde branche 23 du ressort 15 sur la face externe 63 ; cette seconde branche 23 est alors escamotée vers l'extérieur du corps 17 en pivotant par rapport à la pièce de pivotement 33. Cette seconde branche 23 reprend ensuite sa position de repos grâce à l'élasticité du ressort 15, et se positionne au-dessus de la face interne 61 de la dent 51 sur laquelle elle vient de glisser précédemment. Elle assure ainsi la fonction anti-retour du clapet.The teeth 51 of the rotary valve 13 are provided with a inclination, represented on the figures 1 and 2 . These teeth 51 thus have an inner face 61 and an outer face 63. During a pulse exerted on the pusher 11, the end 29 of the first leg 21 of the spring 15 is locked in abutment on the inner face 61 of a tooth 51; then there is gearing: the upward translation of this first branch 21 then causes rotation, around the axis 19, of the valve 13 relative to the body 17. During this rotation of the valve 13, the end 31 the second branch 23 of the spring 15 bears on the outer face 63 of a tooth 51. The rotational force thus slides the second branch 23 of the spring 15 on the outer face 63; this second branch 23 is then retracted towards the outside of the body 17 by pivoting relative to the pivoting part 33. This second branch 23 then resumes its rest position thanks to the elasticity of the spring 15, and is positioned above of the inner face 61 of the tooth 51 on which it has just slid. It thus ensures the check valve's anti-return function.

Lors d'une translation de la première branche 21 du ressort 15, celle-ci tend à reprendre sa position de repos. La seconde branche 23 est bloquée en appui sur la face interne 61 d'une dent 51 et elle est également bloquée dans le logement 37 du corps 17, ce qui tout d'abord, empêche la rotation en sens inverse du clapet 13, et ensuite, empêche la seconde branche 23 de pivoter par rapport à la pièce de pivotement 33. L'extrémité 29 de la première branche 21 du ressort 15 glisse alors en appui sur la face externe 63 de la dent 51 suivante, le blocage de la seconde branche 23 dans le fond 65 du logement 37, représenté en figure 3, assurant alors le retour élastique en position de repos de ladite première branche 21 en-dessous de la face interne 61 de cette dent 51 suivante.During a translation of the first branch 21 of the spring 15, the latter tends to resume its rest position. The second branch 23 is locked bearing on the inner face 61 of a tooth 51 and is also locked in the housing 37 of the body 17, which firstly prevents the rotation in the opposite direction of the valve 13, and then prevents the second branch 23 from pivoting with respect to the pivoting part 33. The end 29 of the first branch 21 of the spring 15 slides then bearing on the external face 63 of the next tooth 51, blocking the second branch 23 in the bottom 65 of the housing 37, shown in FIG. figure 3 , then ensuring the springback in the rest position of said first branch 21 below the inner face 61 of the next tooth 51.

En référence aux figures 1, 2 et 5, le poussoir 11 comprend une encoche 67 recevant l'extrémité 29 de la première branche 21 du ressort 15. Le fond 69 de l'encoche 67 appuie sur l'extrémité 29 de cette première branche 21 lors d'une impulsion ou du retour élastique en position de repos de la première branche 21. L'un des côtés de l'encoche 67, c'est-à-dire le côté interne 71, assure le blocage de la première branche 21 du ressort 15. Ce blocage permet le retour élastique en position de repos de la seconde branche 23 du ressort sur la face externe 63 d'une dent 51 du clapet 13 après chaque incrémentation dudit clapet 13. Cette encoche 67 permet également la rotation de la première branche 21 du ressort 15 par rapport à la pièce de pivotement 33, lors de son retour élastique en position de repos après une impulsion exercée sur le poussoir 11.With reference to figures 1 , 2 and 5 , the pusher 11 comprises a notch 67 receiving the end 29 of the first branch 21 of the spring 15. The bottom 69 of the notch 67 presses on the end 29 of this first branch 21 during a pulse or springback in the rest position of the first branch 21. One of the sides of the notch 67, that is to say the inner side 71, ensures the locking of the first leg 21 of the spring 15. This blocking allows the return elastic in the rest position of the second branch 23 of the spring on the outer face 63 of a tooth 51 of the valve 13 after each incrementation of said valve 13. This notch 67 also allows the rotation of the first leg 21 of the spring 15 relative to the pivoting piece 33, during its elastic return to the rest position after a pulse exerted on the pusher 11.

Tel que représenté sur les figures 1 à 5, le corps 17 comprend au moins un pion de guidage 73. Ce pion de guidage 73 s'adapte dans un orifice 75 sur le corps 17, et il se loge dans une lumière 77 sur le poussoir 11 avec laquelle il coopère pour assurer le guidage en translation dudit poussoir 11 sur le corps 17 dans les deux sens de l'axe d'écoulement 9. L'extrémité haute 79 de la lumière 77 constitue une butée d'arrêt qui délimite la course du poussoir 11 par rapport au corps 17 lorsqu'il descend sous la poussée exercée par la première branche 21 du ressort 15. Lors d'une impulsion exercée sur le poussoir 11, son extrémité supérieure vient en contact sur le dessous 81 du corps 17 faisant butée.As shown on the Figures 1 to 5 , the body 17 comprises at least one guide pin 73. This guide pin 73 fits in an orifice 75 on the body 17, and it is housed in a slot 77 on the pusher 11 with which it cooperates to provide guidance in translation of said pusher 11 on the body 17 in both directions of the flow axis 9. The upper end 79 of the slot 77 constitutes a stop which defines the stroke of the pusher 11 relative to the body 17 when it descends under the thrust exerted by the first leg 21 of the spring 15. During a pulse exerted on the pusher 11, its upper end comes into contact on the underside 81 of the body 17 abutting.

Selon le mode de conception représenté sur les figures 1 à 5, le dispositif de commande à impulsion comprend une bague de glissement 83 qui constitue une pièce intermédiaire entre le corps 17 et le poussoir 11. Cette bague 83 est solidarisée à l'extrémité inférieure 85 du corps 17, par exemple par vissage. Le diamètre intérieur du poussoir 11 reçoit cette bague 83 afin d'assurer un montage coulissant entre ces deux éléments lors d'une impulsion sur le poussoir 11 et de son retour en position. De préférence, cette bague de glissement 83 est prévue pour réceptionner un aérateur ou un mitigeur connu de l'Homme du Métier permettant de briser le jet d'eau.According to the mode of conception shown on the Figures 1 to 5 , the pulse control device comprises a sliding ring 83 which constitutes an intermediate piece between the body 17 and the pusher 11. This ring 83 is secured to the lower end 85 of the body 17, for example by screwing. The inside diameter of the pusher 11 receives this ring 83 to ensure a sliding assembly between these two elements during a pulse on the pusher 11 and its return to position. Preferably, this sliding ring 83 is provided to receive an aerator or a mixer known to the skilled person to break the water jet.

Selon une conception préférentielle représentée sur les figures 1 à 5, le dispositif de commande à impulsion comprend une bague de protection 87. Cette bague 87 est solidaire du corps 17 de manière à constituer son enveloppe externe. La bague 87 est de préférence vissée sur l'extrémité supérieure 89 du corps 17 et elle s'étend vers le bas le long de celui-ci afin de couvrir au moins ledit corps 17, le clapet rotatif 13, le ressort d'incrémentation 15 et la partie supérieure 91 du poussoir 11 comprenant la lumière 77.According to a preferential conception represented on Figures 1 to 5 , the pulse control device comprises a protective ring 87. This ring 87 is integral with the body 17 so as to form its outer casing. The ring 87 is preferably screwed onto the upper end 89 of the body 17 and extends downwardly along the latter to cover at least said body 17, the rotary valve 13, the increment spring 15 and the upper portion 91 of the pusher 11 comprising the light 77.

L'économiseur utilisera de préférence des joints 93, 95, 97 nécessaires pour assurer une parfaite étanchéité des éléments assemblés.The economiser will preferably use seals 93, 95, 97 necessary to ensure perfect sealing of the assembled elements.

L'économiseur 1 selon l'invention est avantageusement manoeuvré en exerçant toujours la même impulsion de bas en haut sur le poussoir. L'économiseur sera mis en oeuvre chez les fabricants de robinetterie et utilisable sur tout type de robinet standard, présentant un filetage mâle ou femelle, grâce à son adaptateur. Il pourra être installé très simplement par des particuliers, qui pourront avantageusement réutiliser le mitigeur ou l'aérateur équipant déjà leurs robinets.The economizer 1 according to the invention is advantageously operated by always exerting the same pulse upwards on the pusher. The economizer will be used by valve manufacturers and can be used on any type of standard valve, with male or female thread, thanks to its adapter. It can be installed very simply by individuals, who can advantageously reuse the mixer or the aerator already equipping their faucets.

Claims (9)

  1. Water economiser (1) for mounting on the spout of a tap through which water flows at a rate adjusted when the tap is opened, said economiser comprising a mechanical device for reducing or interrupting the flow, a water inlet pipe (5) mounted on the tap spout, and an outlet pipe (7) through which the water is discharged out of the economiser (1), said inlet (5) and outlet (7) pipes defining a flow axis (9), characterised in that it comprises an impulse control device making it possible, when the tap is opened and when a first impulse is exerted upwards on the outlet pipe (7) along the flow axis (9), to reduce or interrupt the water flow, and then, when a second impulse is exerted upwards on the outlet pipe (7), similar to the first pulse, to re-establish the water flow as initially adjusted.
  2. Economiser (1) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the impulse control device comprises at least:
    - a pusher (11) on which the pulses are exerted upwards,
    - an incrementation rotary valve (13) allowing, according to the incrementation position, either the reduction or interruption of the flow or the flow at the initially adjusted rate,
    - an incrementation spring (15) for the rotary valve (13) and return of the pusher (11) to its position,
    - a body (17) for receiving the incrementation spring (15) and the rotary valve (13), said pusher (11) being mounted so as to slide with respect to the body (17) along the flow axis (9).
  3. Economiser (1) according to either one of claims 1 or 2, characterised in that the incrementation spring (15) is U-shaped, held flat on the body (17) and mounted in pivot connection on said body (17) by means of a pivoting piece (33), the first of the arms (21) of the U undergoing a translation along the orientation of the flow axis (9) when an impulse is exerted on the pusher (11), and the second of the arms (23) of the U undergoing a rotation with a respect to the pivoting piece (33) when the rotary valve (13) is incremented.
  4. Economiser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the valve (13) comprises a cylindrical central body (49) and teeth (51) for rotationally incrementing said cylindrical body (49) about the axis (19).
  5. Economiser (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the valve (13) comprises a spherical central body and teeth (51) for rotationally incrementing said central body about the axis (19).
  6. Economiser (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterised in that the rotary valve (13) comprises at least three apertures (57, 58, 59) disposed in a radial position around the cylindrical or spherical central body (49), said apertures (57, 58, 59) providing either the reduction or interruption of the water flow or normal passage of the water flow, according to the rotational incrementation of the valve (13).
  7. Economiser (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, characterised in that the teeth (51) are provided with an inclination so as to have an internal face (61) and an external face (63), the first arm (21) being locked in abutment on the internal face (61) of a tooth (51) and the second arm (23) sliding in abutment on the external face (63) of a tooth (51) at the time of an impulse, and the second arm (23) being locked in abutment on the internal face (61) of a tooth (51) and the first arm (21) sliding in abutment on the external face (63) of a tooth (51) when said first arm (21) of the spring (15) elastically returns to the idle position.
  8. Economiser according to claims 5 and 6, characterised in that the body (17) comprises a flow channel (55), comprising an outlet (60) at the bottom part, said flow channel (55) communicating with the cylindrical housing (53) of said body (17) and with the apertures (57, 58, 59) in the rotary valve (13) with the spherical cylindrical body, and in that a seal is positioned at the top periphery of said outlet (60) of the flow channel (55), between the valve body (13) and the housing (53), so as to procure a seal making it possible to use the economiser as a water flow interrupter, leaving the control levers of the tap open.
  9. Economiser (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the impulse device comprises a thread adapter secured to the top end of the body (17), said adapter being fixed to the tap spout.
EP20070866445 2006-10-27 2007-10-26 Water economiser with manual pulse control to be mounted on a tap spout Active EP2079884B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0609442A FR2907874B1 (en) 2006-10-27 2006-10-27 MANUAL IMPULSE CONTROL WATER SAVERS ADAPTABLE TO A SPOUT FAUCET
PCT/FR2007/001772 WO2008050007A2 (en) 2006-10-27 2007-10-26 Water economiser with manual pulse control to be mounted on a tap spout

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2079884A2 EP2079884A2 (en) 2009-07-22
EP2079884B1 true EP2079884B1 (en) 2013-03-13

Family

ID=38110053

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20070866445 Active EP2079884B1 (en) 2006-10-27 2007-10-26 Water economiser with manual pulse control to be mounted on a tap spout

Country Status (6)

Country Link
US (1) US20100065666A1 (en)
EP (1) EP2079884B1 (en)
AU (1) AU2007310704A1 (en)
CA (1) CA2667721A1 (en)
FR (1) FR2907874B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2008050007A2 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102010055459A1 (en) * 2010-05-27 2011-12-01 Neoperl Gmbh Sanitary outlet insert
CN112827677B (en) * 2019-11-25 2024-07-02 厦门松霖科技股份有限公司 Waterway control device and handheld water outlet device

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4262844A (en) * 1980-01-22 1981-04-21 Mark Controls Corporation Control valve
US5904334A (en) * 1997-03-10 1999-05-18 The Horton Company Quiet high flow control valve
EP1078132A1 (en) * 1998-05-08 2001-02-28 Tapmagic Limited Pressure responsive flow regulator
GB2356687A (en) * 1999-09-22 2001-05-30 Steven Smith Water saving device
EP1423632B1 (en) * 2001-09-07 2007-04-11 FlowCon International A/S Insert for dynamic flow control
GB2396902A (en) * 2003-01-03 2004-07-07 Jonathan Laker Fluid control device
US7111638B2 (en) * 2003-05-06 2006-09-26 Safety Flow Company, Llc Excess flow shutoff

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2907874B1 (en) 2009-01-09
AU2007310704A1 (en) 2008-05-02
WO2008050007A3 (en) 2008-06-26
WO2008050007A2 (en) 2008-05-02
EP2079884A2 (en) 2009-07-22
CA2667721A1 (en) 2008-05-02
FR2907874A1 (en) 2008-05-02
US20100065666A1 (en) 2010-03-18

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